Nepal continues to witness active monsoon conditions as the monsoon trough, the low-pressure line responsible for rainfall, has shifted northwards, hovering close to the southern plains of the country. According to the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology, this shift has resulted in intensified precipitation, particularly over the Terai belt of several provinces, with both light and moderate rainfall reported as of Monday morning.
The Meteorological Forecasting Division (MFD) stated that the influence of monsoon winds is currently felt across the nation. The northern shift in the monsoon trough has effectively brought the rain-bearing system nearer to the Terai regions of Nepal, especially affecting provinces like Madhesh and Koshi. This change in weather dynamics has triggered scattered rainfall events across the country’s southern and central belts, including intermittent downpours in various districts.
Light to Moderate Showers Reported in Madhesh and Other Terai Regions
On Monday morning, light to moderate rainfall was ongoing in several districts of Madhesh Province, with isolated rainfall also observed in the Terai regions of Bagmati, Lumbini, and Koshi provinces. Commuters and farmers in these regions have welcomed the rainfall, which is critical for seasonal agriculture but are also advised to remain cautious, particularly in flood-prone areas.
Afternoon Forecast: Cloudy Skies and Thunderstorms Expected Nationwide
For the afternoon hours, the weather forecast predicts generally cloudy skies across the country. The MFD has warned of possible thunderstorms and lightning in most regions, along with moderate rainfall. “There is a significant chance of thunderstorm activity accompanied by lightning in many parts of the country,” said an official from the department.
The provinces at heightened risk include Koshi, Madhesh, Bagmati, Gandaki, and Lumbini, where localized heavy rainfall is also expected. The department has urged the public to stay informed through official updates and avoid unnecessary travel in vulnerable areas, particularly those near rivers or steep slopes.
Risk of Heavy Rainfall in Five Provinces: Flash Floods Possible
According to the MFD, several parts of Koshi, Madhesh, Bagmati, Gandaki, and Lumbini provinces may experience heavy to very heavy rainfall. Residents living near rivers, landslide-prone areas, or low-lying floodplains have been advised to remain alert, as heavy downpours could trigger flash floods and landslides.
Disaster risk management bodies across these provinces have been put on standby, and local authorities have been mobilized to monitor vulnerable zones. The department emphasized that although monsoon rains are seasonal, the intensity and sudden nature of downpours in certain regions can escalate disaster risks within a short timeframe.
Night Forecast: Continuing Rainfall, Heavy Showers Likely in Central Provinces
The night-time forecast indicates continued cloudy conditions across the country, with ongoing rainfall likely in various parts. Specifically, Koshi, Madhesh, Gandaki, and Lumbini provinces are expected to receive moderate rainfall in many locations. Meanwhile, in Bagmati, Gandaki, and Lumbini provinces, there is a forecast of heavy to very heavy rain in a few isolated areas.
This weather pattern suggests that the monsoon system is currently at a very active phase. Such widespread rainfall is beneficial for paddy cultivation and other monsoon-dependent crops, but excessive rainfall over a short duration could overwhelm local drainage systems, especially in urban areas.
Authorities Urge Caution as Weather Conditions Intensify
With the monsoon system gaining strength, the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology has issued alerts to the general public, asking people to remain cautious, especially while traveling or venturing into hilly and mountainous regions. The possibility of sudden landslides in areas with already saturated soil and riverbanks breaching due to increased flow remains high.
In recent years, Nepal has witnessed significant monsoon-related disasters, including floods and landslides causing loss of life and property. Authorities are encouraging communities to stay in close touch with local disaster response committees and to have evacuation plans ready if living in at-risk areas.
Real-Time Updates Available on Official Platforms
The Department has reiterated that updated forecasts and rainfall warnings are available in real-time on its official website and mobile apps. Travelers, farmers, local governments, and disaster response units are encouraged to monitor these updates closely to make informed decisions. Additionally, the public can use services like mobile weather alerts to stay up to date with the latest weather changes in their area.
As the monsoon continues to progress, Nepal’s preparedness in coordination between meteorological authorities and disaster response teams will play a crucial role in mitigating potential damage. The Department has made it clear that while rainfall is essential for agriculture, awareness and timely action are vital in minimizing its negative impacts.
